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Medical information Clinical review pending

Diabetes Testing

GAD65 Glutamic Acid Decarboxylase 65 IgG Test

The GAD65 Glutamic Acid Decarboxylase 65 IgG Test helps identify autoimmune diabetes by measuring antibodies against the GAD65 enzyme, aiding in early detection and management.

General information only: This page is not a diagnosis or personal medical advice. A qualified clinician should decide whether testing is appropriate and interpret results in context.

Review status: No completed medical review is recorded for this page.

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Counselor guidance included Confidential handling Kenya-wide coordination

At a glance

Plan your test

Sample
2 mL (1 mL minimum) serum from 1 Serum Separator Tube (SST).
Results
Results are typically available the same day if samples are submitted by the specified deadline (Wednesday or Saturday by 9 am). Confirm with the laboratory before booking.
Preparation
No special preparation is required for this test.
Test priceKSh 17,000

Payment: M-Pesa and card options can be confirmed during booking.

Insurance & government schemes

Is this test covered for you?

We help you verify whether the GAD65 Glutamic Acid Decarboxylase 65 IgG Test test can be claimed against your insurer, employer scheme or a Kenyan government health scheme — before you book. Coverage depends on your plan, clinical indication and your provider's rules; final approval always rests with them.

Talk to a claims advisor

Providers & schemes we can help you check

Government & public schemes

SHIF — Social Health Insurance Fund Linda Mama EduAfya NHIF (legacy cards)

Eligibility and benefits follow the current rules of the Social Health Authority (SHA) and applicable government programmes.

Private insurers & employer schemes

Jubilee Health AAR APA Britam CIC Madison Resolution Pioneer Minet Old Mutual GA Life Heritage + other licensed insurers

Names shown for identification only — listing does not imply partnership or guarantee of coverage.

Have these ready when we check

  • Insurer or scheme name & policy / member number
  • A clinician's request / prescription for the test
  • Pre-authorisation letter, if your plan requires one

Free coverage check

Ask us to verify your cover

Send your details and our claims team confirms what documents you need and whether pre-authorisation applies — usually the same working day.

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Used only to process your coverage check — see our Privacy Policy. Verification support is free and does not guarantee your provider will pay.

01

Start with fit

Is this the right test for you?

The best test starts with a clear clinical question. These are common reasons a clinician or family may consider this test.

  • ✓Individuals experiencing symptoms of diabetes (e.g., increased thirst, frequent urination, unexplained weight loss).
  • ✓People with a family history of autoimmune diseases.
  • ✓Individuals diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes with atypical features.
  • ✓Assisting in the diagnosis of Type 1 diabetes.
  • ✓Monitoring autoimmune processes related to diabetes.
02

In plain language

What this test helps you understand

This test aids in the diagnosis of autoimmune diabetes, helps differentiate between types of diabetes, and supports monitoring disease progression.
The GAD65 Glutamic Acid Decarboxylase 65 IgG Test is a diagnostic tool used to detect autoimmune diabetes. This test measures the presence of antibodies against the enzyme GAD65, which plays a role in insulin production. Identifying these antibodies can help determine if diabetes is autoimmune in origin, particularly Type 1 diabetes, and assist in effective disease management.

This test specifically looks for IgG antibodies against GAD65. Elevated levels can indicate that the body's immune system is attacking insulin-producing cells.

This test is useful for individuals experiencing diabetes symptoms, those with a family history of autoimmune diseases, or those diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes who might have autoimmune characteristics. Early detection allows for timely intervention and appropriate treatment strategies. Discussing the results with a healthcare provider is crucial for understanding their implications and planning care.
03

Medical review status

Clinical review pending

A completed medical review is not recorded for this page. No clinician has endorsed the information shown here. Please discuss testing decisions with a qualified healthcare professional.

Meet the DNA Labs Kenya medical team →
04

A simple process

What happens next?

You do not have to navigate the test alone. We help you move from question to next step.

1

Speak with us

We check the test and answer your questions before collection.

2

Give your sample

Choose home collection or a coordinated hub visit in Kenya. We explain whether this test uses a cheek swab or blood draw.

3

Understand your report

A counselor helps you understand the result and the next steps.

05

Choose your collection

Home collection or a lab visit

We will explain the sample, preparation, and next steps before anything is collected.

Home collection

Choose a coordinated visit at home or another convenient location. Our team confirms the appointment and sample requirements in advance.

Lab or hub visit

Prefer to visit a coordinated location? We can guide you to the right hub and explain what to expect when you arrive.

Ask about locations →
PreparationNo special preparation is required for this test.
Sample2 mL (1 mL minimum) serum from 1 Serum Separator Tube (SST).
MethodologyEnzyme Immunoassay (EIA).
PrivacyYour sample and report are handled confidentially. Ask the team how your information is stored and shared.
A positive result indicates the presence of GAD65 antibodies but does not confirm a diagnosis of diabetes on its own. Clinical correlation is essential. Confirm with the laboratory before booking.
06

Read your report

What common result terms mean

PositiveA finding was identified. Your clinician or counselor will explain what it means for your care.
NegativeThe specific finding tested for was not identified. It does not rule out every possible cause.
VUSA variant was found, but current evidence is not enough to classify it. Your counselor can explain follow-up.
07

Questions people ask

Frequently asked questions

This test detects IgG antibodies against the enzyme GAD65, which can indicate an autoimmune process related to diabetes.
Individuals with diabetes symptoms, a family history of autoimmune disease, or atypical Type 2 diabetes may benefit from this test.
A blood sample (serum) is required for this test.
No special preparation, such as fasting, is required for this test.
Results are typically available the same day if the sample is submitted by the specified deadline. Confirm with the laboratory before booking.
A positive result suggests the presence of GAD65 antibodies. It's important to discuss the results with your doctor to understand their significance in your specific situation.
08

Collaboration

Open for partnership with hospitals, clinics, doctors & researchers

Whether you are referring patients, building a research programme or supporting students, we work as an extension of your team — with responsive communication and clear scientific standards.

Hospitals & clinics

Referral pathways, coordinated sample logistics and shared reporting that fits your clinical workflow.

Doctors & specialists

LOINC-coded reports, ACMG-based variant classification and a direct scientific line for complex cases.

Research institutions

Sanger sequencing, NGS panels and custom assays — with project design support, batch pricing and agreed turnaround commitments.

Students & academic projects

Discounted laboratory services for college, master's and PhD research projects — including proposal guidance and cost-effective batch testing.

Explore partnerships
09

Trust & transparency

Sources, standards & how this page is maintained

Standards & references

  • ACMG/AMP technical standards for sequence variant interpretation
  • ClinGen curation and gene–disease validity frameworks where applicable
  • LOINC-coded reporting for interoperable results
  • ISO 9001:2015 quality management; ISO 15189 accreditation in progress

Page provenance

  • Last updated: September 27, 2026
  • Medical review: not yet completed
  • Written for patients & clinicians in Kenya; reviewed periodically against current guidance

Medical disclaimer: this page is general information, not a diagnosis or personal medical advice. Testing decisions and result interpretation should be made with a qualified healthcare professional.

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